A magnitude 5.5 earthquake struck Ethiopia’s Afar region on March 16, 2025, at a depth of 10 km. The earthquake affected approximately 76,000 individuals with varying intensities of shaking. The USGS issued a Green alert indicating low likelihood of casualties and damage. This earthquake is part of a significant seismo-volcanic crisis affecting the Dofen volcano region, which has seen increased seismic activity and potential volcanic risk since late 2024.
On March 16, 2025, at 18:53 UTC, a significant earthquake measuring 5.5 on the Richter scale struck the Afar region of Ethiopia. The United States Geological Survey (USGS) noted that the earthquake occurred at a shallow depth of 10 km (6.2 miles), with the European-Mediterranean Seismological Centre (EMSC) corroborating the same data.
The earthquake’s epicenter was located 46 km south of Awash, 63.8 km south-southwest of Metahara, and 55.5 km east of the Dofen volcano. Approximately 6,000 individuals experienced severe shaking, while 26,000 reported very strong shaking, 14,000 felt strong shaking, and 30,000 observed moderate shaking.
In response to this natural disaster, the USGS issued a Green alert, indicating a low likelihood of casualties or significant economic losses. Most structures in the affected region are susceptible to earthquake damage, with informal constructions and adobe block houses being the most vulnerable types.
The seismic activity has raised concerns regarding secondary hazards, including landslides that could exacerbate damage. A moderate aftershock, measured at 4.3 magnitude, occurred later that day at a depth of 10 km, approximately 47 km SSE of Abomsa. This aftershock is part of an ongoing crisis affecting the area since December 2024, characterized by increased seismic activity and the development of severe geological fissures.
Notably, a strong earthquake on January 4, 2025, caused mass evacuations due to the emergence of large cracks in the ground. Since the onset of this crisis, over 60,000 residents have been displaced. Concerns also arise from a newly formed volcanic vent at Mount Dofen that released jets of steam and mud, suggesting a potential eruption, which would be unprecedented for this volcano.
Additionally, the stability of the Kesem/Sabure Dam is of concern, given it was designed to withstand earthquakes up to 5.6, yet the current seismic events pose a risk of structural failure that could lead to catastrophic flooding affecting countless lives. Mount Dofen, part of the tectonically active East African Rift System, is a focal point for ongoing earthquake and volcanic activity due to tectonic plate movements beneath the surface.
The recent 5.5 magnitude earthquake near Dofen volcano in Ethiopia’s Afar region has significant implications for public safety and structural integrity in the area. With a Green alert indicating low fatality risks, it remains crucial to address the vulnerabilities in local infrastructure and the ongoing volcanic activity. The recent history of seismic events highlights the need for continued monitoring and preparedness to mitigate the effects on the population and the environment.
Original Source: watchers.news
